ZAPPA IN NEW YORK

I'm probably one of the few who purchased this album and "Roxy And Elesewhere" at the same time. Many feel these are two of Zappa's best live albums. I felt "Roxy And Elsewhere" was fairly tame when it comes to the vulgarity but it also gave the listener a good sense of what a Zappa concert would have been like. This album is much longer and to be honest the guys who help out vocally (Bozzio in particular) aren't that good, maybe annoying is the word. Instrumentally this has some incredible moments but I still prefer the instrumental work on "Roxy And Elesewhere". Now I do think the second album here is a solid 4 stars but it's the first record that for me is barely 3 stars, if that.

"Titties And Beer" kicks in without any band introductions or words from Frank. For me this is a turn off with some of the things that are said. Oh well. "Crusin For Burgers" is an instrumental with the focus on the drums and guitar. It's okay. "I Promise Not To Come In Your Mouth" is orchestral-like and pretty good. "Punky's Whips" opens with some narration that is funny. When Bozzio comes in vocally it's not good at all. I like the instrumental work after 2 minutes and throughout though. Jeff Beck is mentioned a couple of times. Yes he's fluid. "Honey Don't You Want A Man Like Me ?" is good. Vibes and vocals to start.Intricate guitar follows. "The Illinois Enima Bandt" is my favourite off disc one. Narration to start then it turns bluesy including the guitar that goes on and on. Nice.

The second album opens with "I'm The Slime" and I do prefer the studio version although the guitar is excellent here. "Pound For Brown" is my favourite track on this recording. An absolutely fantastic instrumental. "Manx Needs Woman" has some crazy keyboards in this short track. "The Black Page Drum Solo / Black Page 1" is a drum solo with bass. "Big Leg Emma" is a song my dad would have liked. An uptempo fun track. "Sofa" is a good instrumental. "Black Page 2" opens with a monologue. Not a fan of the music. "The Torture Never Stops" is outstanding. I like the guitar ,especially later when it becomes more passionate. "The Purple Lagoon / Aproximate" is my second favourite off this recording. The horns and guitar are great.

3.5 stars, but if your a Zappa fan don't even hesitate as by far the majority love this double album.